Toyota forklifts are among the most efficient and durable material handling vehicles available. But without a proper ignition system, even the largest Toyota forklift would be completely obsolete. When starting a Toyota forklift, several elements come into play, but the device a lift truck driver interacts with most is the ignition switch. Trying to start the forklift without a proper Toyota ignition switch assembly would be quite difficult. That's why it is essential to detect when they start to fail so they can be repaired or replaced.
How Does a Toyota Forklift Ignition Switch Work
A Toyota switch assembly is not much different from those found on other vehicle types. They generally consist of a cylindrical body inside which there is a mechanism that allows different electrical contacts to be made. To manipulate the device, it is essential to first insert the key inside the component.
A typical Toyota forklift ignition switch assembly
The Toyota ignition switch assembly is what you use to close the electrical circuit between the forklift battery and the starting device. This will allow current from the battery to flow to the ignition coil. The voltage from the coil will increase, creating a spark that will ignite the engine fuel.
If you want to visualize more easily how an engine starting system works and the role of the ignition switch, we suggest you take a look at the following video:
There are four positions for a Toyota forklift ignition switch:
Lock. This is essentially the "off" position. The accessories function won't work, and the key may be removed from the keyhole.
Accessory. In accessory mode, a Toyota forklift driver can use the lift truck's accessories, like turning the lights. But it won't be able to remove the key from the keyhole.
On. This position turns on all of your accessories and electronics. The lift truck driver won't be able to remove the key from the keyhole. The key in the keyhole will also default to this position after the engine starts.
Start. If you turn your key all the way, your key will be in this position. This will turn on your engine and all of your accessories. But you have to know that If you hold this position for too long, it can damage the starter device.
What Wires Go to a Forklift Ignition Switch?
There are four poles on every Toyota ignition switch. The first pole connects the battery wire, the second connects the ignition system cable, the third connects the starter cable, and the fourth connects to the accessory system of the lift truck. Generally, both poles and cables have identifiers, so you can tell them apart. Cables usually have color codes, while switch poles are usually identified with letters.
Wires connections of a Toyota forklift ignition switch
Before installing a new Toyota ignition switch assembly, we suggest that you consult your Toyota forklift's user manual to avoid any connection mistakes.
How to Test a Toyota Forklift Ignition Switch
If our Toyota lift truck does not start, the first thing we usually think is that the battery is the problem. But this is not always the case. The problem could be located in the Toyota forklift ignition switch assembly.
There is a quick and easy way to test whether an ignition switch is faulty. You can do this by using a multimeter because one of its major functions it's testing the continuity of an electrical current on an electrical circuit. That's why this tool lets us know if there is any interruption in the current flow through the Toyota ignition switch assembly.
Check the electrical continuity between the connection points
We can figure out if there is a problem with the Toyota ignition switch assembly by checking if there is electrical continuity in their different positions. We need to test at first whether or not the switch works in the starting position because if this position fails, there is no reason to test the rest. To do this, we need to find where the battery cable and starter cable are connected. If we can't measure continuity between both poles when the key is in the starting position, then it means there is a problem with the switch's internal mechanism.
Signs of a Bad Toyota Forklift Ignition Switch
A faulty Toyota ignition switch will produce specific symptoms
A Toyota ignition switch assembly has several positions that power on different systems as the key is turned. It controls almost all running aspects of your Toyota lift truck, so it's critical for it to work properly. Since the Toyota ignition switch assembly is used every time the vehicle is powered on and started, it will eventually wear out and begin to have issues. A faulty ignition switch can produce specific symptoms that can alert you of a potential issue. Here are the most common ones:
Your Toyota lift truck stalls while driving. If the ignition switch fails while the engine is still on, it may cut off power to the ignition and fuel systems, which will cause the engine to stall.
The Toyota lift truck starts and then suddenly stalls. If the ignition switch is in the "on" position and it fails, the forklift might start but then immediately stop. The ignition switch will give power to the fuel pump and ignition system for a moment when it is in the "cranking" position. This might allow the vehicle to start. But if it has failed in the "on" position, it will cut off power to the fuel and ignition systems as soon as you move the key back to the "on" position. So basically, you might be able to start the lift truck, but it might not stay on once you put the key back in its place.
The engine doesn't start. A Toyota forklift's engine that refuses to crank can indicate several problems, one of which could be a faulty ignition switch. The Toyota ignition switch assembly sends power to the starter, engine controls, and ignition controls. These systems may not receive the power they need to start up if the ignition switch isn't working properly.
Hard time turning or removing the key. If the ignition key gets stuck when turning on the car or removing the key, it may be a sign of a worn out ignition switch. It's likely that the key isn't connecting inside the switch properly.
The Right Way to Purchase a New Toyota Forklift Ignition Switch
The first thing you should consider when purchasing a new ignition switch replacement for your Toyota forklift is whether it is compatible with your model. There are many Toyota lift truck models out there, some of which may share the same type of part, but that is not always the case. Each part of your Toyota forklift has a specific code, so ensure that the new Toyota ignition switch assembly has the same code as the old one.
Make sure that the new ignition switch matches the old one's part number
To find the correct part number for your Toyota forklift, consult the owner's manual corresponding to the model of your forklift. If you do not have the manual, consult an experienced Toyota forklift spare part dealer or your trusted mechanic.
The price of the ignition switch may vary depending on whether you buy an OEM or aftermarket one. An OEM Toyota ignition switch will be exactly compatible with your model, but it might be a bit more expensive. An aftermarket ignition switch will do the same thing as an OEM one, but it can be used on different forklift models and would be much more affordable.
Finally, once you have decided on the type of ignition switch you want to buy, the next thing will be to determine how you will purchase it. Currently, buying online is the best way to go because it is much easier to find the right replacement, and the prices are usually more competitive.
Get Your Toyota Forklift Ignition Switch Replacement at Lift Parts Warehouse
If you are looking for high-quality Toyota forklift parts, the best place to find them is at Lift Parts Warehouse. In our online catalog, you will find various products compatible with many Toyota forklift models. This means that you can get the right ignition switch for your needs.
At Lift Parts Warehouse, we strive to increase our stock daily so our clients can find the spare parts they need at the most affordable prices. To know more about our pricing policy, please click here.
We are happy to say that we have been a leading distributor of parts for material handling vehicles in the United States for many years. And you will not find a better offer than those offered by Lift Parts Warehouse. In addition, each of our products has a guarantee that supports it.
We count on a fast shipping service that will deliver your order quickly. And if for any reason you are not satisfied with what you received, you can return it and get a refund. For more information about our return policy, click here.
If you let us show you why we are one of the best forklift parts distributors, you won't regret it. If you have any questions, please write to our staff, or if you prefer, you can call us today. With our spare parts, your Toyota forklift will perform like new again.
Takeaways
The Toyota ignition switch assembly is a very important part in the process of starting a forklift. This device allows the driver to control the switching on or off of different systems on the forklift, such as accessories or the engine itself. However, over time this part can deteriorate. That is why it is important to be able to recognize when the first symptoms of failure start to appear. If you do not replace a defective ignition switch in time, you could end up with a lot of trouble in the future. That is why when you need a new Toyota ignition switch for your forklift, Lift Parts Warehouse is here to help you out. With our spare part, your lift truck will be able to operate at its best performance.
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